In Bradford, 33 children remain "unaccounted for" after being off school for at least two months with no explanation.

The Government is also concerned about another 14 areas of the country where it is feared children under 16 could also be missing from school rolls.

The figures were disclosed yesterday by Children's Minister Kevin Brennan during evidence to the Commons Home Affairs Select Committee, which is investigating the controversial issue of forced marriages.

He revealed the results of worrying inquiries by officials in Bradford, a city with a substantial Asian population.

Mr Brennan said Bradford City Council lost track of 205 youngsters last year.

Further inquiries had established the whereabouts of 172 - leaving 33 unaccounted for.

"It is a serious concern when any child - any single child - becomes unaccounted for," said Mr Brennan.

"And what we need to try to do is seek an explanation of what has happened."

Asked whether the police were looking for them, he added: "They should be."